Activaero and Chiesi Enter into Research Collaboration for Novel Drug Device Combination in Cystic Fibrosis

Activaero GmbH, the therapeutic area specialist for respiratory diseases focusing on novel, pharmacoeconomically meaningful treatment solutions for severe lung diseases, has entered into a research collaboration with Chiesi Farmaceutici SpA.

The companies are going to jointly evaluate the potential of a novel drug device combination product using Activaero's proprietary FAVORITE inhalation approach and Chiesi's pharmaceutical agent to create a highly mobile and effective treatment solution for Cystic Fibrosis.

Chiesi already has an established presence in the Cystic Fibrosis field. The company obtained approval and markets directly or through partners its proprietary inhaled tobramycin solution (Bramitob/Bethkis, 300 mg/4 mL UDV) in several countries worldwide, including the US.

Under the terms and conditions of the collaboration agreement, Activaero provides Chiesi with its flow and volume regulated inhalation technology (FAVORITE) incorporated in a customised device solution. Such a solution allows for optimum drug distribution across the entire lung importantly including the small airways. This most distal region of the lung is typically not accessible with standard nebulizer systems due to the obstructions caused by scarred tissue and mucus in the lungs of Cystic Fibrosis patients. The first part of the research work is planned to be completed by the end of 2013. Financial details of the collaboration were not disclosed.

"This exciting research collaboration represents further validation for our proprietary FAVORITE inhalation approach by one of the pioneers in the respiratory arena," commented Gerhard Scheuch, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Activaero GmbH. "We are highly optimistic that this program can provide a significantly improved treatment solution for Cystic Fibrosis, a detrimental disease with a high unmet medical need."

"The FAVORITE inhalation approach is highly promising to achieve optimal lung deposition rates with lower drug doses and, ultimately, a better therapeutic outcome in the treatment of Cystic Fibrosis. We are looking forward to work with our new partner Activaero on this promising project," said Paolo Chiesi, Vice President and R&D Director of the Chiesi Group.